A MAN, 55, accused of “committing an indecent act” and exposing himself to members of the public at popular swimming spot the Bogey Hole in the middle of the day on Friday has been sent for a mental health assessment. Newcastle City police say they were called to the heritage-listed ocean baths about 11.30am after a man was allegedly spotted “conducting an indecent act” in view of the public. Police located a man nearby and he was arrested and taken to Newcastle police station. The man, Craig Andrew Hood, 55, was charged with wilful and obscene exposure in or near a public place, committing an act of indecency with a person over 16 and committing an act of indecency with a person under 16, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in jail. Police also charged Mr Hood with four counts of failing to comply with reporting obligations. After he was charged, police refused Mr Hood bail and he appeared in Newcastle Bail Court on Saturday. He did not enter any pleas and the registrar ordered that Mr Hood should be taken to a mental health facility to be assessed. The Bogey Hole, between Newcastle and Bar Beach, is one of the city’s iconic landmarks, particularly popular with inner-city residents and visitors in the warm summer months. While you’re with us, did you know The Herald is now offering breaking news alerts, daily email newsletters and more? Keep up-to-date with all the local news - sign up here.

Man accused of exposing himself at the Bogey Hole

The Bogey Hole, between Newcastle and Bar Beach, is one of the city’s iconic landmarks, particularly popular with inner-city residents and visitors in the warm summer months.

A MAN, 55, accused of “committing an indecent act” and exposing himself to members of the public at popular swimming spot the Bogey Hole in the middle of the day on Friday has been sent for a mental health assessment.

Newcastle City police say they were called to the heritage-listed ocean baths about 11.30am after a man was allegedly spotted “conducting an indecent act” in view of the public. Police located a man nearby and he was arrested and taken to Newcastle police station.

The man, Craig Andrew Hood, 55, was charged with wilful and obscene exposure in or near a public place, committing an act of indecency with a person over 16 and committing an act of indecency with a person under 16, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in jail.

Police also charged Mr Hood with four counts of failing to comply with reporting obligations.

After he was charged, police refused Mr Hood bail and he appeared in Newcastle Bail Court on Saturday.

He did not enter any pleas and the registrar ordered that Mr Hood should be taken to a mental health facility to be assessed.